B.C. Lions safety Cauchy Muamba developed his itch for football during a charity basketball game when he was in high school in Toronto.
"One time we had a charity event and the Argos came in and we played against them," said Muamba. "One of the coaches just told me that I should try and play football. I did and never looked back."
The second-year Lions' defender was in Prince George on Sunday with teammate Shawn Gore helping teach a variety of football skills to 40 eager students at the fourth consecutive Prince George minor football play with the pros event at Lac du Bois School.
The lessons taught included ones in passing, receiving, kicking, blocking and defensive drills.
Both Canadian Football League players said interacting with the kids is one of the best parts of their jobs.
"As soon as you get on the field with the kids, it doesn't matter what happened the day before, today, you forget about all the problems and just have fun," said Muamba. "They put a smile on your face."
Layne Getz and Ryan Hunter, both 13, were two of the older students participating in the drills.
"It was a good experience and I saw one of my coaches," said Getz, heading into his first football season with the College Heights Secondary School Cougars. "We were the only ones from our team that came out here.
"One time we had a charity event and the Argos came in and we played against them. One of the coaches just told me that I should try and play football. I did and never looked back."
Getz received a few tips from Muamba, since he'll be suiting up at safety for the Cougars.
"He told me to stay down when I'm back peddling and keep my back straight," he said, towering over most of the other kids in line for autographs from the Lions' players.
Meeting Muamba and Gore was only one good thing about the boys' day.
"We get our equipment tonight," said Getz. "It's going to be really awesome."
Hunter enjoyed picking up receiving tips from Gore -- second to Geroy Simon on the Lions with 35 catches for 453 yards this season.
Gore, who is still looking for his first touchdown catch this season, said it's surprising how many talented kids are out there.
"Some of the little ones, have some cannons [for arms], it just shocks you at times," said the popular Lions' sophomore slotback in between handshakes with the kids.
Gore said the day the kids had will be in their memories for a lifetime.
"I had some older people that I looked up to come and help me out," said the 24-year-old. "They're memories I won't forget."
